Imperfective Aspect: Definition and Significance

The imperfective aspect in Russian grammar describes an action that is:

• ongoing or continuous
• habitual or repetitive
• unfinished or not completed

This aspect focuses on the process rather than the result, making it an essential component for accurately conveying meaning in spoken and written Russian.

Formation of Imperfective Verbs

Russian verbs typically exist in pairs, consisting of an imperfective verb and its perfective counterpart. The imperfective verb is often considered the basic or “dictionary” form, as it is the one typically listed in most reference materials. To form an imperfective verb, one must consider the following approaches:

1. Use a Prefix
Attach a prefix to the base form of the verb.

Example:

• говорить (to speak) — обсуждать (to discuss)

2. Use a Suffix
Combine the verb stem with a suffix.

Example:

• читать (to read) — читывать (to browse through)

3. Change the Stress
Alter the stress in the verb stem or ending.

Example:

• смотреть (to watch) — смóтреть (to look at)

Not all imperfective verbs have a direct perfective counterpart, so it is essential to be familiar with common prefixes, suffixes, and stress changes that signal the imperfective form.

Usage of the Imperfective Aspect

The imperfective aspect is used in a variety of circumstances, encompassing:

1. Describing Ongoing Actions
To convey actions occurring simultaneously or actions in progress, use the imperfective aspect.

Example:

• Мы читали книги, пока она готовила ужин. (We were reading books while she was cooking dinner.)

2. Habitual or Repeated Actions
The imperfective aspect indicates habits or actions done regularly or repeatedly in the past, present, or future.

Example:

• Он каждое утро бегает в парке. (He runs in the park every morning.)

3. Unfinished or Uncompleted Actions
Indicating that an action never reached completion or fruition can be effectively conveyed using the imperfective aspect.

Example:

• Я пытался позвонить тебе, но ты не брал трубку. (I tried to call you, but you didn’t pick up.)

Imperfective vs. Perfective Aspect: Comparison and Contrast

A clear distinction between the imperfective and perfective aspects is critical for accurate communication in Russian. While the imperfective aspect emphasizes the process or repetition, the perfective aspect underscores the action’s result or completion. The table below provides a comparison of both aspects:

Conclusion

The imperfective aspect in Russian grammar is essential for clearly conveying continuous, habitual, and uncompleted actions, as its understanding forms the basis for accurately expressing oneself in Russian. By grasping the concept, formation, and usage of the imperfective aspect, language learners are better equipped to thrive in a complex and fascinating linguistic environment.